American Legion Auxiliary honors Sgt. Richardson

The Staples American Legion Auxiliary Unit #70 recently presented Retired Sgt. First Class Karla Richardson, Verndale, with a certificate of appreciation. Honoring a ‘lady veteran’ has been a tradition of the local Auxiliary unit for the past eight years.

In attendance at the Jan. 25 program were members of the Staples American Legion Auxiliary; 6th District American Legion Auxiliary President Theresa Soltis Rudnicki, Waite Park; and a representative from both the Staples American Legion Post #70 and the Motley American Legion Post #124.

During the program Sgt. Richardson spoke of her 21 years in the military, of which 16 years were spent in various cities within Germany. She told of her duties and the impact that this service to the United States has had on her life.

Sgt. Richardson also spoke about one of the programs she especially enjoyed, which was giving aid and assistance to families of those deployed. She continues to work with/for veterans today by being a member of the Patriot Guard Motorcycle Club. If requested, this club will travel to and be present at  any veteran’s funeral within the five-state area.

At the recent program, Sgt. Richardson was presented with a framed Certificate of Appreciation for her years of service, a red-white-and blue ‘veterans’ magnet for  her car; and a small pocket flag which fits inside a two in. baggie which can be put in a shirt pocket. The Staples Auxiliary Unit has folded and sent over 2,000 pocket flags to deployed service persons overseas, along with a note thanking them for their service to our country. 

Following the program, refreshments were served and the group enjoyed visiting with Sgt. Richardson.